Maharashtra Poultry Farm Raid: MDMA and Laboratory Equipment Seized

CHANDGAD / BELAGAVI: The Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) has reportedly uncovered an alleged MDMA production facility operating from a poultry farm in Hajagoli village of Maharashtra's Kolhapur district, around 20 km from Belagavi.

According to the investigating agency, the operation led to the seizure of 208 grams of MDMA, chemical substances and laboratory equipment. The total value of the seized material has been estimated at approximately ₹1.13 crore.

Raid at Poultry Farm

The alleged facility was located in Hajagoli village, which lies close to the Maharashtra-Karnataka border. The area is also situated near the tri-junction of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Goa.

Investigators are examining whether the location was being used for the preparation and movement of narcotic substances across state borders. Claims regarding the use of poultry-farm odours to conceal chemical smells are also being examined by the authorities and should not be treated as established fact at this stage.

Investigation Leads to Alleged Facility

The investigation reportedly began in connection with a narcotics case registered at Nayanagar Police Station in Thane district. Information obtained during the investigation allegedly led the Pune-based ANTF team to the poultry farm in Hajagoli village.

The facility is reportedly owned by local resident Pappu Malatwadkar. Investigators are examining the role of individuals connected with the premises as part of the wider probe.

Material Seized

The seizure reportedly included 208 grams of processed MDMA, chemical substances and equipment allegedly used for chemical processing. Among the items mentioned by investigators were glass containers, density meters, digital thermometers, mixing equipment, indicator paper, filter papers and an oven-toaster-griller.

Investigators also reportedly recovered around 70 litres of a 40% Monomethylamine solution along with other chemical reagents. The exact nature and intended use of the recovered substances will be subject to further investigation and forensic examination.

Further Investigation Underway

Several individuals have reportedly been detained for questioning, including a local cashew trader and two residents of Belagavi. Authorities are investigating whether the suspected facility was connected to a larger inter-state narcotics network.

Further action will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation and forensic examination of the seized substances and equipment.

Note: The allegations and investigative findings reported above are subject to the outcome of the ongoing investigation. Detention or questioning does not by itself establish guilt.